Discover the Timeless Charm of Route 66 with These 13 Must-See Stops
Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America,” is one of the most iconic and historic highways in the United States. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, this legendary route offers a mix of quirky roadside attractions, retro diners, and stunning landmarks.
If you’re planning a vintage road trip, these 13 stops will make your Route 66 experience unforgettable. From nostalgic motels to jaw-dropping landscapes, each stop carries its own story, taking you back to a simpler time.
The Gateway Arch (St. Louis, Missouri)
Standing tall over the Mississippi River, the Gateway Arch is the perfect starting point for your Route 66 adventure. This towering structure symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States and offers breathtaking views from the top.
It’s a must-see for any road tripper, and nearby you’ll find plenty of Route 66 history to explore.
The Blue Whale (Catoosa, Oklahoma)
The Blue Whale is one of Route 66’s most whimsical and unforgettable stops. Once a swim park, this giant whale has become a beloved roadside attraction.
Visitors can walk around and even climb inside the whale’s mouth. A truly fun and quirky stop that captures the vintage, kitschy charm of the Mother Road.
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Cadillac Ranch (Amarillo, Texas)
Located just outside Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch features 10 classic Cadillacs buried nose-down in the desert. The cars are covered in layers of graffiti, and visitors are encouraged to add their own marks to the iconic installation.
It’s a perfect blend of art, history, and Route 66 culture, embodying the rebellious spirit of the highway.
Petrified Forest National Park (Holbrook, Arizona)
A stop through the Petrified Forest National Park takes you through a surreal landscape where ancient trees have turned into colorful stones over millions of years. The park’s eerie beauty and the painted desert’s vibrant hues provide a mesmerizing contrast to the usual Route 66 charm.
It’s a scenic detour that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring.
Wigwam Motel (San Bernardino, California)
The Wigwam Motel in San Bernardino is one of the last remaining of its kind from the mid-1900s. Guests sleep in cone-shaped, teepee-style cabins, giving the stop an authentic vintage feel.
It’s like stepping back in time, offering a nostalgic, quirky place to rest while experiencing classic Route 66 hospitality.
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Route 66 Museum (Barstow, California)
For a deep dive into the history of Route 66, the Route 66 Museum in Barstow is a must-visit. This museum showcases the history of the iconic route with photos, vintage signs, and fascinating exhibits.
It’s a perfect stop for history buffs and those looking to understand the importance of the Mother Road.
The Mother Road (Tulsa, Oklahoma)
Tulsa offers a glimpse into the heyday of Route 66, with stunning mid-century architecture and a bustling downtown area. The city has embraced its history, with historic Route 66 signs, diners, and local shops all nodding to the past.
Tulsa is a perfect spot to soak up vintage vibes and relive the golden age of road tripping.
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The Painted Desert (Arizona)
Stretching through the northeastern corner of Arizona, the Painted Desert is one of the most photogenic landscapes along Route 66. The desert’s colorful rock formations and mesas make for a striking contrast to the flat plains and mountains.
This scenic stop invites travelers to take in the natural beauty and vastness of the American Southwest.
The Route 66 Diner (Tulsa, Oklahoma)
For a classic roadside meal, the Route 66 Diner in Tulsa serves up hearty American breakfasts and all your diner favorites. The nostalgic décor and the smell of freshly brewed coffee transport visitors back to the days of jukeboxes and retro booths.
It’s the perfect place to fuel up for the next leg of your journey.
The Petrified Forest Trading Post (Holbrook, Arizona)
Located near the Petrified Forest, this trading post offers a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia, Native American crafts, and unique souvenirs. A classic roadside shop that embraces the spirit of the old highway, it’s a fun place to stretch your legs.
You can also pick up a memento of your trip here.
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Route 66 Drive-In Theater (Springfield, Missouri)
Nothing says vintage road trip like a drive-in theater. The Route 66 Drive-In Theater in Springfield offers an old-school experience, complete with classic movies and the nostalgic charm of cars parked under the stars.
Grab some popcorn and enjoy the flicks just like travelers did in the 50s and 60s.
El Rancho Hotel (Gallup, New Mexico)
If you’re looking for a historic and authentic hotel along Route 66, El Rancho Hotel in Gallup, New Mexico, is the place to stay. Known for its old-west charm, this hotel has hosted Hollywood stars like John Wayne.
The walls are lined with autographed photos, making it a living piece of Route 66 history.
Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, California)
Your Route 66 journey ends at the iconic Santa Monica Pier. The pier has been a symbol of the highway’s western terminus since the 1920s.
Here, you can take a walk along the beach, ride the Ferris wheel, or just soak in the California sun after completing your epic road trip.
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